US High School Psychology Practice Exam

A person is most likely to store a seven-digit phone number in his or her ________ memory.

1. Long-term

2. Short-term

3. Working

4. Explicit

The correct answer is: Short-term

A seven-digit phone number is typically stored in short-term memory because this form of memory is designed to hold a limited amount of information for a brief period, typically around 20 to 30 seconds. Short-term memory allows for the immediate recall of small bits of information, making it ideal for temporarily holding a phone number that one might be dialing or using shortly after learning it. While working memory is engaged when we actively manipulate or process information—such as rehearsing a phone number to remember it temporarily—short-term memory specifically refers to the storage aspect during that brief retention period. Therefore, although working memory can also come into play, it is short-term memory that captures the essence of holding onto a seven-digit phone number merely for recall without manipulation. Long-term memory, on the other hand, is where information is stored for extended periods and is not typically used for quick, immediate recall situations like remembering a phone number just for the next dial. Explicit memory relates to the conscious recollection of information, which is broader and encompasses various types of memories, not limited to numerical data like a phone number. Thus, the most appropriate choice regarding the storage of a seven-digit phone number is short-term memory.